Red Sox's Sonny Gray declines mutual option, becomes free agent

Boston Red Sox pitcher Sonny Gray. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Red Sox's Sonny Gray declines mutual option, becomes free agent

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Oct 30, 2026 2:07 PM ET

According to Boston Red Sox reporter Ari Alexander, veteran right-handed starting pitcher Sonny Gray has declined his $30 million mutual option for 2027 and will net a $10 million buyout.

The 36-year-old had a stellar 2026 campaign in his first season with the Red Sox, logging a dominant 18-5 record with a 2.72 ERA, 149 strikeouts and a 1.15 WHIP across 169 innings pitched.

Gray led the AL in wins, showcasing how he showed no signs of slowing down in his age-36 season. Now he can test the market and search for a deal that resembles his market value.

He also illustrated a strong ability with inducing weak contact, generating a 46.4% ground-ball rate paired with a solid 33.2 % chase rate and a 6.7% walk rate.

Sonny Gray is officially a free agent.
— Ari Alexander (@AriA1exander) October 30, 2026

Sonny Gray a unique free agent among other veteran starters on the market

Gray is a unique veteran starter, as he's capable of sustaining his effectiveness deep into games and doesn't need to utilize powerful velocity to do so.

His 29 starts in 2026 showcase how he's able to manage a heavy workload, which illustrates him as a reliable arm for a team looking to add a durable starter. Gray pitched six-plus innings in 22 of his 29 starts, proving that he is a reliable workhorse. As well, he's an intriguing free agent for teams looking for a starter on a short-term deal.

Gray was also a strong contributor to the Red Sox's historic second-half surge that helped lead them to the postseason. Following the All-Star break, Gray pitched 73 and 1/2 innings with a sparkling 2.95 ERA and 1.21 WHIP with 73 punchouts.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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